CHASING the midnight SUN
Enjoy otherworldly landscapes, seemingly never-ending light and an adventure in every port in the magic kingdom of Norway
When you think of going on holiday to Norway, chances are you immediately think of the Aurora Borealis. So did I, until I joined Viking Cruises on its magical Into The Midnight Sun tour.
On arrival in Bergen, I’m struck by the colourful waterfront houses. Then I spot Viking Sea moored near the city centre. It’s big for 900 passengers – together we’ll cruise fjords and cross the Arctic Circle in search of a natural phenomenon: when the sun remains visible at midnight.
One excursion in every port is complimentary so, after learning about the Hanseatic League and dried salted cod, I take the funicular up Mount Fløyen and marvel at Bergen from above.
Sailing Geirangerfjord, we pass waterfalls and Skageflå; a farm only accessible by a steep climb, where Norway’s King and Queen celebrated their silver wedding anniversary. I explore Geiranger on foot and splurge on a souvenir troll!
Food on board is a highlight. There are even special menus, such as Erling’s Scandinavian Bistro. Reindeer consommé and cloudberry soup are both divine, and beautifully paired with wines by the sommelier.
As we head towards the Lofoten Islands, I join a lecture on Norway’s wildlife and treat myself to an Arctic Detox in the Scandi-sumptuous Livnordic Spa. Then I head to the Pool Deck, where guests are joining the Order of the Blue Nose. This ceremony involves an icy plunge, kissing a fish, aquavit and having your nose painted blue! Instead, I grab a tuna steak from the Pool Grill, and a crisp Riesling.
Our crossing of the Arctic Circle is marked as we pass a statue on Vikingen Island. Shortly after midnight, the sky turns purple and I feel humbled by a unique life experience.
On Monday, we reached Lofoten and its snowy peaks. On our Sea Eagle Safari, we feel exhilarated as we bounce around in an inflatable boat far above the Arctic Circle. The sea eagles are magnificent.
There are some epic voyages that lend themselves to cruising, and this is one of them. The calm seas and otherworldly landscapes of Norway, discovered on the elegant Viking Sea, should be on everyone’s bucket list. The tour continues to Greenwich, but I disembark in Tromsø with memories to last a lifetime.
SHIP SHAPE
The Viking Cruises 15-day Into The Midnight Sun cruise from Bergen to London costs from £5,490, including flights, drinks with meals, wi-fi and gratuities (vikingcruises.co.uk).